Mechanism of action
Like Contrave, the way that topiramate promotes weight loss is unclear. However, mice models indicate that topiramate can have an effect on how your body uses energy. This is likely due to its inhibitory effect on glutamate, a chemical found in the body. Glutamate stimulates the hypothalamus, which in turn can cause you to want to increase food intake8.
Side effects
Topiramate can cause stomach pain, nausea, diarrhea, anorexia, and problems with taste. It can also lead to fatigue, dizziness, trouble with memory, tingling or pricking sensations, low bone mineral density, fever, and upper respiratory tract infections2.
